'It was misinterpreted': Benji Marshall defends new recruit Terrell May over 'fake' concerns
Wests Tigers coach Benji Marshall has defended new recruit Terrell May after concerns surfaced regarding the prop's commitment to rugby league.
May was granted a release from the final two years of his deal at the Roosters, just months after agreeing to terms with the club.
The decision was a head-scratcher, with many claiming May's interview with The Sydney Morning Herald where he described his complicated relationship with footy was cause for concern.
READ MORE: 'Unsure': Benji responds to rumours of Bateman rift
READ MORE: 'Really proud': Aussies confirm call-up for in-form star
READ MORE: Kimmorley eyeing vacant Origin coaching job
"I gave it away twice, when I was 18 and then when I was 20," May says.
"Both times I just didn't want to play anymore. I get like that throughout the year as well."
Terrell May has left the Roosters to join the Tigers. Getty
While nobody from the Roosters has publicly stated that interview was the reason for May's early exit, there has been heavy speculation that it was a factor.
Those concerns have clearly not translated to May's new home
"He was here playing reserve grade when I was playing," Marshall said.
"There was this fake thing around that he didn't want to play footy. I think what he said was misinterpreted - he is actually a guy who has normal feelings like everyone else and said that sometimes it's hard, which I admire him for.
"At the end of the day, when I sat down with him he was fully committed to getting us out of where we are and wanted to be a part of it and we're happy he's coming to us."
Marshall himself had his commitment called into question during his first season in charge at Concord after he took a mid-season trip to Fiji.
Benji Marshall has one season as head coach under his belt. Getty
But the coach is adamant that he encourages Tigers players to put their families first.
"You've got to understand, it's all good and well saying values out loud, but if you're not living it then the players see through that," he said.
"I've made no secret that in my life, family comes before footy and it's just how it is for me. I say it to all the players, they see me live that and I encourage them as well.
"When you finish footy, you have only got your family and you can't lose sight of that."
May's arrival comes in the midst of a huge recruitment drive from Marshall and chief executive Shane Richardson, who have landed the likes of Jarome Luai and Jack Bird.
